sottovoce
in a low voice / softly / under one's breath
Intermediate Adverb
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Pronunciation
/sottoˈvoːtʃe/
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Cultural Note
Sottovoce has been borrowed directly into English and is used in music as a performance direction. In Italian daily life, speaking sottovoce signals intimacy, secrecy, or respect for quiet environments -- a notable contrast to Italy's reputation for loud conversation.
📝 Example Sentences
Mi ha detto sottovoce che se ne voleva andare.
She told me softly that she wanted to leave.
Parla sottovoce, il bambino dorme.
Speak softly, the baby is sleeping.
Mormorava qualcosa sottovoce.
He was mumbling something under his breath.